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2023 Field Trip Schedule

WHAT TO BRING: If the trip is scheduled to go beyond 11:00 a.m., bring a lunch. Binoculars are essential; scopes, field guides, insect repellant, layered clothing and waterproof footwear are suggested. Notice that even trips which don't have a set leader will still take place - we'll all pitch in and have a good trip anyhow.
WEATHER CONDITIONS: Unless noted, all trips take place regardless of normal rain and snowy weather. However, trips will be canceled in extreme blizzard conditions.

1. Harley Ensign Memorial Boating Access Site- Leader: Joanna Pease
January 21st (Saturday) 10:00 AM

Harley Ensign, or the "DNR boat launch" to some, is a classic place to visit in the winter. Because the mouth of the Clinton River often stays open while many other bodies of water freeze, there can be thousands of overwintering ducks and gulls, with an occasional rarity mixed in. There is also the possibility of seeing Snowy Owls which often roost on buildings near the access site.

There will be a spotting scope available for viewing, but please bring your own if you have one. Meet in the parking lot at 32995 S. River Rd., Harrison Township. Dress very warmly, as it can be very cold with winds blowing across the lake.

After viewing at this site, anyone that has interest can join Joanna to walk out to the point at nearby Lake St. Clair Metropark, in the afternoon, to look for more ducks. Be sure to RSVP to Joanna by text at (313) 720-9475 or by email at centymeme@aol.com so you can be notified if this trip is cancelled due to inclement weather.

2. Beaudette Nature Park - Leader: Colleen Traylor
February 18th (Saturday) 10 AM

Beaudette Park is a jewel of a park in Pontiac, with a small mill pond and often hundreds of waterfowl, an amazing sight to see! You barely even need your binoculars, though it’s always good to bring them. From there, those who wish, may join us for lunch at The Grill, 2235 Orchard Lake Rd., Sylvan Lake, MI, 48320. Then, if all are willing, Colleen will take everyone to see a couple more hidden gems. Thanks to Colleen for finding this place and for leading the trip every year.

Contact Colleen at (248) 627-6872, or grandmothernature2@gmail.com with any questions.

3. Kensington Metropark - Leader: Wade Leonard
March 15 (Wednesday) 10 AM

Come enjoy the nature trails and continue our annual tradition of hand-feeding the birds including chickadees and nuthatches. Everybody loves to hold the birds and see them so close! Bring seed for the birds and lunch for yourself. Meet in the Nature Center parking lot. Entrance fee required. RSVP to Wade by e-mail WadeLeonard1922@att.net. If weather is inclement, make-up day will be Wednesday, March 22.

4. Stony Creek Metropark - Leader: Joanna Pease
August 27 (Saturday) 8:00 a.m.

Although September is considered the classic month for fall warblers, late August can also be very productive. Looking for fall warblers a little earlier in the season will give us a nice foretaste for the warblers to come. Join us at Stony Creek’s Southdale A parking lot to look for migrants in the woods and on the lake.This trip should end by noon. Entrance fee or Metroparks sticker needed. RSVP to Joanna by text at (313) 720-9475 or email at centhymeme@aol.com Click for Map (Southdale Red #1)

n. 124th Christmas Bird Count - Leader: Brian McGee
Dec. 16 (Saturday)

For over a century, the National Audubon Society has collected data from volunteers throughout the country on early-winter bird populations. Saturday, December 19th will be the date of Macomb Audubon Society's 46th Christmas Bird Count. If you have never participated in this annual event, please think about volunteering to help count the birds in our area. Many of our Macomb Audubon members look forward to this special occasion to bird with friends and enjoy a hot soup/chili supper at the end of the day followed by a tally of all birds counted.

Sign up sheets will be available at the upcoming membership meetings. After signing up, you will be assigned to an area with other birders. Please offer to split the cost of gas among the participants in each car.

Area leaders will receive their packets at the December membership meeting. The tally supper will be held on the same evening of the count at 5 PM in the Nature Center at Stony Creek Metropark (click here for map). Please consider volunteering to bring a crock-pot of chili, soup, snack or dessert to the tally. Participants, remember to bring your own soup bowl and spoon.

If you wish to participate and are unable to attend the meetings please contact Brian McGee at brianmcgee@wowway.com.

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